Courageous cops tackle knifeman

Two heroic policemen who apprehended a burglar armed with a knife have been commended for their bravery by the region’s top cop. Beswick-based Sergeant Christopher Flint and Constable Phillip Bainbridge were presented with the John Egerton Trophy by Chief Constable Peter Fahy for their outstanding courage.

Two heroic policemen who apprehended a burglar armed with a knife have been commended for their bravery by the region’s top cop.

Beswick-based Sergeant Christopher Flint and Constable Phillip Bainbridge were presented with the John Egerton Trophy by Chief Constable Peter Fahy for their outstanding courage.

Both officers were stabbed by a violent burglar – Sgt Flint in the arm and PC Bainbridge in the knee – but they still managed to disarm the offender.

The pair, based at Grey Mare Lane police station, were first at the scene of the incident in October 2008, and went into a house because they were aware people were inside and they were concerned for their safety.

They were immediately confronted by two violent men, one of whom had a woman and teenager pinned in a corner of the room.

One man escaped from the house but the man threatening the victims turned his attention towards the officers and stabbed them with a knife.

Despite their injuries the officers eventually were able to restrain and disarm the man. Following the arrest, both officers needed medical treatment, including having to be given oxygen, due to the severity of the wounds.

The offender, 24-year-old Leon Smith of no fixed abode, was sentenced to an indeterminate life sentence with a minimum of seven years at Manchester Crown Court on charges of the attempted murder of Sgt Flint, assault on PC Bainbridge, burglary and robbery.

The commemorative cup is presented annually in honour of the late PC John Egerton, 20, who was killed while on duty in 1982. It is awarded to an officer who, in the view of colleagues, have performed the most meritorious act of valour during the year.